Why Test pH?pH is the measure of acidity of water. A pH reading of 7.0 is neutral. A pH higher than 7.0 is alkaline, and a pH lower than 7.0 is acidic. Certain freshwater fish thrive at a pH above 7.0. Live-bearers and goldfish require a pH of 7.5. African cichlids, marine fish and invertebrates require a pH between 8.2 and 8.4. Maintaining the aquarium at the proper pH ensures optimal water quality.

Testing Tips:This test kit measures pH from 7.2 to 8.8 in either fresh or saltwater aquariums. This kit contains two High Range pH Test Color Charts — one for freshwater aquariums, and one for saltwater aquariums — so be sure to use the correct chart for your type of aquarium when interpreting test results. The Freshwater pH Test Color Chart is the appropriate chart to use for testing freshwater aquariums to which aquarium salt and African cichlid salt have been added. Artificial salt water should have a pH of 8.2. If not, adjustment with Aquarium Pharmaceuticals PROPER pH™ 8.2 is recommended. pH adjustment may be required in newly made salt water.

Directions for Testing pH:

Read thoroughly before testing. Do not allow Test Solutions to get into aquarium.

To remove childproof safety cap: With one hand, push red tab left with thumb while unscrewing cap with free hand.

Fill a clean test tube with 5 ml of water to be tested (to the line on the tube).

Add five drops of Indicator Solution, holding dropper bottle upside down in a completely vertical position to assure uniformity of drops.

Cap the test tube and invert tube several times to mix solution. Do not hold finger over open end of tube, as this may affect the test results.

Determine the pH reading by matching the color of the solution against those on the High Range pH Color Chart. The tube should be viewed against the white area beside the color chart. Color comparisons are best made in a well-lit area. The closest match indicates the pH of the water sample. Rinse the test tube with clean water after each use.

Recommended pH Levels:

SaltwaterA pH level of 8.2 is ideal for saltwater fish, invertebrates and African cichlids. To automatically set the pH at 8.2. use Aquarium Pharmaceuticals PROPER pH 8.2 for saltwater aquariums. Proper pH 8.2 is a carbonate buffer which automatically adjusts and holds the pH at 8.2.

FreshwaterA pH of 7.5 is ideal for most live-bearing fish, such as mollies and swordtails. Goldfish will also thrive at a pH of 7.5. To raise or lower the pH of a freshwater aquarium, use Aquarium Pharmaceuticals pH UP™ or pH Down™, following the directions on the container. Proper pH 7.5 may be used to automatically adjust and hold pH at 7.5. Proper pH 8.2 may be used in African cichlid aquariums.

Frequency of Testing: The pH should be tested weekly, since natural materials in the aquarium (such as fish waste and decaying food) can cause pH changes. The minimum pH reading for this kit is 7.2 and the maximum is 8.8. Under extreme water conditions, readings below the minimum will read 7.2 and above the maximum will read 8.8. pH adjustments outside the range of this kit will not show any changes until the pH of the aquarium water is within the range of this kit.

CAUTION:

Keep out of reach of children.

Eye contact: gently flush with water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lens, if present, after the first 5 minutes, then continue rinsing.

Skin contact: wash thoroughly with soap and water.

If swallowed, contact a physician or Poison Control Center immediately.

Freshwater/Saltwater Ammonia Test Instructions:

Why test for Ammonia?Tropical fish continually release ammonia (NH3) directly into the aquarium through their gills, urine, and solid waste. Uneaten food and other decaying organic matter also add ammonia to the water. A natural mechanism exists that controls ammonia in the aquarium – the biological filter. It is made up of nitrifying bacteria, which live in the gravel bed. However, as with any natural process, imbalances can occur. Testing for the presence of toxic ammonia is essential, so that once detected, steps can be taken to remove it. Otherwise, ammonia in the aquarium will damage gill membranes, and prevent fish from carrying on normal respiration. High levels of ammonia quickly lead to fish death. Even trace amounts stress fish, suppressing their immune system and thereby increasing the likelihood of disease outbreaks and subsequent fish loss.

Testing Tips:This salicylate based ammonia test kit reads the total ammonia level in parts per million (ppm) which are equivalent to milligrams per Liter (mg/L) from 0 ppm to 8.0 ppm (mg/L), in either fresh or saltwater aquariums. Thus, there are two Ammonia Test Color Charts — one for freshwater aquariums, and one for saltwater aquariums — so be sure to use the correct chart for your type of aquarium when interpreting test results. The Freshwater Ammonia Test Color Chart is the appropriate chart to use for testing freshwater aquariums to which salt has been added.

Directions for Testing Ammonia Levels:

Read thoroughly before testing. Do not allow Test Solutions to get into aquarium.

To remove childproof safety cap: With one hand, push red tab left with thumb while unscrewing cap with free hand.

Fill a clean test tube with 5 ml of water to be tested (to the line on the tube).

Add 8 drops from Ammonia Test Solution Bottle #1, holding the dropper bottle upside down in a completely vertical position to assure uniformity of drops added to the water sample.

Add 8 drops from Ammonia Test Solution Bottle #2, holding the dropper bottle upside down in a completely vertical position to assure uniformity of drops added to the water sample.

Cap the test tube and shake vigorously for 5 seconds. Do not hold finger over the open end of the tube, as this may affect the test results.

Wait 5 minutes for the color to develop.

Read the test results by matching the test solution against the Ammonia Test Color Chart. The tube should be viewed against the white area beside the color chart. Color comparisons are best made in a well-lit area. The closest match indicates the ppm (mg/L) of ammonia in the water sample. Rinse the test tube with clean water after each use.

What the Test Results Mean:

In a new freshwater or saltwater aquarium, the ammonia level may surge to 6 ppm (mg/L) or more, and then fall rapidly as the biological filter becomes established. The ammonia will be converted to nitrite (also toxic), then to nitrate. This process may take several weeks. Use Aquarium Pharmaceuticals STRESS ZYME® to speed up the development of the biological filter. In an established aquarium, the ammonia level should always remain at 0 ppm (mg/L). The presence of ammonia indicates possible over-feeding, too many fish, or inadequate biological filtration.

The ammonia level is not an indication of the nitrite level; nitrite is another toxic waste material which must be tested separately.

Monitoring Ammonia Levels:Regular testing is necessary to make sure the ammonia level is safe. Aquarium water should be tested for ammonia every other day when the aquarium is first set up, and once a week after the biological filter has been established (in about 4 to 6 weeks).

Detoxifying Ammonia Using AMMO-LOCK® in Freshwater and Saltwater Aquariums:To detoxify ammonia, use Aquarium Pharmaceuticals AMMO-LOCK to instantly lock up ammonia. AMMO-LOCK does not remove ammonia, it simply converts toxic ammonia to a non-toxic form. Ammonia test kits will still test positive for ammonia, even though it is non-toxic. The biological filter will then consume the non-toxic ammonia, converting it to nitrite and then to nitrate.

Filtering Method to Remove Ammonia in Freshwater Aquariums:Filter aquarium water with Aquarium Pharmaceuticals AMMO-CARB® or AMMO-CHIPS® to remove ammonia and improve water quality.

Water Changes:Changing 25% of the aquarium water will reduce the ammonia level. In an emergency, a daily water change may be required over several days. Be sure to use a water conditioner like Stress Coat® or AMMO-LOCK, when adding tap water back into the aquarium.

DANGER:

HARMFUL & CORROSIVE C

Bottle #2 contains sodium hydroxide and sodium hypochlorite

Causes severe burns

Contact with acids liberates toxic gas

Toxic by inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed

Danger of cumulative effects

Keep locked up and out of the reach of children

Keep away from food, drink and animal feeding stuffs

In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water (at least 15 minutes) and seek medical advice immediately. If contact lenses are present, remove after 5 minutes and continue rinsing

After contact with skin, wash immediately with plenty of water. Remove contaminated clothing

Wear suitable gloves and eye/face protection

In case of accident or if you feel unwell, seek medical advice immediately (show label where possible)

Do not mix with acidic materials

Freshwater/Saltwater Nitrite Test Instructions:

Why Test For Nitrite?Nitrite (NO2-) is produced in the aquarium by the biological filter. Beneficial bacteria in the biological filter convert toxic ammonia into nitrite (also toxic). The biological filter then converts nitrite into nitrate (NO3-). Testing for the presence of toxic nitrite is essential, so that once detected, steps can be taken to remove it. Otherwise, nitrite in the aquarium will prevent fish from carrying on normal respiration. High levels of nitrite quickly lead to fish death. Even trace amounts of nitrite stress fish, suppressing their immune system and, thereby, increase the likelihood of disease and subsequent fish loss.

Testing Tips:This test kit reads total nitrite (NO2-) level in parts per million (ppm) which are equivalent to milligrams per Liter (mg/L) from 0 ppm to 5.0 ppm, in either fresh or saltwater aquariums. Other nitrite test kits that measure “nitrite-nitrogen” (NO2-N) will give readings 3.3 times LESS than this test kit.

Directions for Testing Nitrite:

Read thoroughly before testing. Do not allow test solutions to get into aquarium.

To remove childproof safety cap: With one hand, push red tab left with thumb while unscrewing cap with free hand.

Fill a clean test tube with 5 ml of water to be tested (to the line on the tube).

Add 5 drops of Nitrite Test Solution, holding dropper bottle upside down in a completely vertical position to assure uniformity of drops added to the water sample.

Cap the test tube and shake the tube for 5 seconds. Do not hold finger over the open end of the tube, as this may affect test results.

Wait five minutes for the color to develop.

Read the test results by matching the color of the solution against those on the Nitrite Test Color Chart. The tube should be viewed against the white area beside the color chart. Color comparisons are best made in a well-lit area. The closest match indicates the ppm (mg/L) of nitrite in the water sample. Rinse the test tube with clean water after each use.

What The Test Results Mean:

In new freshwater and saltwater aquariums the nitrite level will gradually climb to 10 ppm (mg/L) or more. As the biological filter becomes established (in 4 to 6 weeks), nitrite levels will drop to 0 ppm (mg/L). In an established aquarium, the nitrite level should always remain at 0 ppm (mg/L). The presence of nitrite indicates possible over-feeding, too many fish, or inadequate biological filtration.

The nitrite level is not an indication of the ammonia level; ammonia is another toxic waste material which must be tested separately.

Monitoring Nitrite Levels:Regular testing for nitrite is an essential part of routine aquarium maintenance. Aquarium water should be tested for nitrite once a week to make sure the nitrite does not reach undesirable level.

Reducing Nitrite in the Aquarium:

FreshwaterUse Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Nitra-Zorb™ to remove nitrite from freshwater aquariums. Nitra-Zorb is a rechargeable filtration material that removes nitrite from freshwater. Making partial water changes can also help reduce the nitrite level, especially if the initial nitrite level is very high. Use Aquarium Pharmaceuticals STRESS ZYME® to help speed the development of the biological filter. Adding Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Aquarium Salt will reduce nitrite toxicity to fish while the biological filter is removing the nitrite.

SaltwaterPartial water changes will lower nitrite in a saltwater aquarium. Use Aquarium Pharmaceuticals STRESS ZYME to help speed up the development of the biological filter.

CAUTION:

CORROSIVE & HARMFUL

Causes burns. Harmful if swallowed.

Contains hydrochloric acid.

Avoid contact with skin and eyes.

If on skin, flush with water for 15 minutes.

If in eyes, hold lids open and flush with water for 15 minutes. Remove contact lens, if present, after the first 5 minutes, then continue rinsing.

If swallowed, do not induce vomiting. Call a physician immediately.

FIRST AID:Give large amounts of water or milk of magnesia. Wash thoroughly after handling. Keep out of the reach of children.

Freshwater/Saltwater Nitrate Test Instructions:

Why Test For Nitrate?Nitrate (NO3-) is produced in the aquarium by the biological filter. Beneficial bacteria in the biological filter convert toxic ammonia and nitrite into nitrate. A high nitrate level indicates a build-up of fish waste and organic compounds, resulting in poor water quality and contributing to the likelihood of fish disease. Excessive nitrate also provides a nitrogen source that can stimulate algal blooms. In the opinion of many aquarists, maintaining a low nitrate level improves the health of fish and invertebrates.

Testing Tips:This test kit reads total nitrate (NO3-) level in parts per million (ppm) which are equivalent to milligrams per liter (mg/L) from 0 ppm to 160 ppm, in either fresh or saltwater aquariums. This kit includes two Nitrate Test Color Charts — one for freshwater aquariums, and one for saltwater aquariums — so be sure to use the correct chart for your type of aquarium when interpreting test results. The Freshwater Nitrate Test Color Chart is the appropriate chart to use for testing freshwater aquariums to which salt has been added. This test kit measures nitrate as nitrate ion or “total nitrate.” Other nitrate test kits that measure “nitrate-nitrogen” (NO3-N) will give readings 4.4 times LESS than this test kit.

Directions for Testing Nitrate:

Read thoroughly before testing. Do not allow Test Solutions to get into aquarium.

To remove childproof safety cap: With one hand, push red tab left with thumb while unscrewing cap with free hand.

Fill a clean test tube with 5 ml of water to be tested (to the line on the tube).

Add 10 drops from Nitrate Test Solution Bottle # 1, holding dropper bottle upside down in a completely vertical position to assure uniformity of drops added to the water sample.

Cap the test tube and invert tube several times to mix solution. Do not hold finger over the open end of the tube, as this may affect test results.

Vigorously shake the Nitrate Test Solution Bottle # 2 for at least 30 seconds. This step is extremely important to insure accuracy of test results.

Now add 10 drops from Nitrate Test Solution Bottle #2, holding dropper bottle upside down in a completely vertical position to assure uniformity of drops to the water sample.

Cap the test tube and shake vigorously for one minute. This step is extremely important to insure accuracy of test results.

Wait five minutes for the color to develop.

Read the test results by matching the color of the solution against those on the Nitrate Test Color Chart. The tube should be viewed against the white area beside the color chart. Color comparisons are best made in a well-lit area. The closest match indicates the ppm (mg/L) of nitrate in the water sample. Rinse the test tube with clean water after each use.

What The Test Results Mean:In new freshwater and saltwater aquariums the nitrate level will gradually climb as the biological filter becomes established. A nitrate level of 40 ppm (mg/L) or less is recommended for freshwater aquariums. Many marine aquarists prefer to keep nitrate levels as low as possible, especially when keeping invertebrates.

Monitoring Nitrate Levels:Regular testing for nitrate is an essential part of routine aquarium maintenance. Aquarium water should be tested for nitrate once a week to make sure the nitrate does not reach an undesirable level.

Reducing Nitrate in the Aquarium:

In FreshwaterUse Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Nitra-Zorb™ to remove nitrate from freshwater aquariums. Nitra-Zorb is a rechargeable filtration material that removes nitrate from freshwater. Making partial water changes can also help reduce the nitrate level, especially if the initial nitrate level is very high. However, because many tap water supplies contain nitrate, it can be difficult to lower nitrate levels by this method. Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Tap Water Purifier will remove all pollutants, including nitrate, from tap water, making water changes effective. The Tap Water Purifier makes any tap water perfect aquarium water.

In Saltwater

Partial water changes are the easiest way to lower the nitrate in a saltwater aquarium. Keep in mind, however, that the biological filter constantly produces nitrate. Also, because many tap water supplies contain nitrate, it can be difficult to lower nitrate levels by this method. Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Tap Water Purifier will remove all pollutants, including nitrate, from the tap water— making water changes effective. The Tap Water Purifier makes any tap water perfect aquarium water.

DANGER:

Bottle #1 contains 41% Hydrochloric acid

Causes burns

Irritating to respiratory system

Harmful if swallowed

Keep locked up and out of the reach of children

In case of contact with eyes or skin, rinse immediately with plenty of water (at least 15 minutes) and seek medical advice immediately

Remove contaminated clothing

Wear suitable gloves and eye/face protection

In case of accident or if you feel unwell, seek medical advice immediately (show label where possible).

Manufacturer Info

Aquarium Pharmaceuticals Aquarium SuppliesAquarium Pharmaceuticals (API) has been helping people take good care of ornamental fish for over 40 years. Their research and development scientists have advanced the care of fish with all-natural medications, stable bacteria for biological filtration, one-bottle test kits, consumer-friendly dosing caps and much more. They’ve received over 25 global patents for their breakthrough innovations in the aquatics industry. And they continue to look for ways to improve the fishkeeping experience for hobbyists. Research. Experience. Dedication to scientific, quality treatment for healthy fish. It’s what makes API the first choice of aquarium owners. API manufactures and sells hundreds of products across many different product categories, including aquarium and pond treatments, aquarium equipment, aquariums and fish nutrition.

The more I know API

by
Happyjackson

Below Average

Posted: 11/17/2014 from Lynnwood, WA UNITED STATES

2.05

Experience Level:
Intermediate

Comments:The more I use API products the less I like them. All I can think to call them is mediocre. I am sure there are many more brands to choose from. I will have to start doing more homework before buying what is easy. My results were kind of dicey and not very repeatable. This seem to follow suit in both Fresh and Salt test kits.

Colors Difficult to read

by
GLENN MILLAR

Average

Posted: 5/26/2012 from SPRING HILL, TN UNITED STATES

2.55

Experience Level:
Intermediate

Comments:For some reason some of these tests the colors are not the greatest. Since you are having to use individual drops to vary the color and determine what your measurements are. One drop could be the difference of 10ppm in one area. You might have to make 3 to 4 extra drops to be able to actually tell what color it is. The old fashioned dip sticks that other brands produce are easier to read. Since you lose a calcium test and some others with that brand I think you still have to have both.

API SW Kit

by
DOYLE LOVIL

Excellent!

Posted: 9/23/2011 from HOUMA, LA UNITED STATES

5.05

Experience Level:
Beginner

Comments:This kit seems to do the job. I have not compared the results to another kit so I do not know the accuracy, but it gives me a good idea of where my parameters are. As always, was awesome and great to deal with!

Great buy!!!

by
STACEY SMITH

Excellent!

Posted: 3/21/2011 from ALTURAS, CA UNITED STATES

5.05

Experience Level:
Intermediate

Comments:For the price of each test seperately, I saved a few bucks buying the kit. Very easy to use and well worth the money. I really liked the fact that the Ph test had a much better color range, which I have found difficult on other more expensive tests.

Good

by
Snupa

Great

Posted: 1/15/2011 from NJ

4.05

Experience Level:
Beginner

Comments:I'd say this gives you a good reading but I always have a problem with matching up the color with the color chart given. Takes a little while to do the tests but no biggie. I like the test tubes included and the bottles hold enough to do many tests.

Roll of the Dice

by
HUAN NGUYEN

Average

Posted: 1/8/2011 from SAN LEANDRO, CA UNITED STATES

3.05

Experience Level:
Intermediate

Comments:Recently bought this kit because my LFS said it was decent. Everything tested fine and accurate, but my nitrates were constantly reading in the 40-80's. Water change after water change I barely lowered the nitrate levels. After a week of water changes I had a friend come test my water with his API test kit. Everything read perfect. Turns out I got a bad nitrate kit. Just to make sure, I took a sample to my LFS for them to check.

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